The Katsina State Police Command says it arrested no fewer than 188 suspects linked to various criminal activities and rescued 12 kidnapped victims in March.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on Monday in Katsina, noting that the success was part of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat crime.
Sadiq-Aliyu said the command recorded significant successes in its intensified operations against kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling, and arms trafficking across the state.
He attributed the achievements to intelligence-led operations, strengthened inter-agency collaboration, and sustained patrols in identified flashpoints.
According to him, the breakdown of arrests shows that 14 suspected armed robbers, two gunrunners, one suspected car thief, five suspected bandit informants, and 14 suspects linked to homicide were apprehended.
He added that 20 suspected rapists and 22 persons involved in illegal drug peddling were also arrested during the period.
The PPRO further revealed the arrest of a notorious gang member allegedly linked to the killing of one Abu Abbasi, adding that investigations are ongoing.
He said the command also dismantled criminal networks involving informants and gunrunners supplying logistics to bandits in Dutsinma and Safana Local Government Areas.
Sadiq-Aliyu stated that the 12 rescued kidnapped victims received medical attention and were reunited with their families.
He listed items recovered during the operations to include two PKT rifles, two AK-47 rifles, three locally fabricated firearms, two ammunition belts, and 974 rounds of live ammunition.
Others, he said, were 30 stolen animals and five motorcycles used in criminal activities.
The police spokesman said the successes were achieved through targeted raids on criminal hideouts, increased surveillance on major highways, and proactive community policing initiatives.
He commended other security agencies and local communities for their support, noting that joint patrols and real-time intelligence sharing have enhanced operational efficiency.
Sadiq-Aliyu stressed that the fight against crime is ongoing and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the following numbers: 08156977777, 09022209690, and 07072722539.
